Melba Elaine Rich, aged 97, passed away on April 16, 2026, in Hemphill. Born on July 28, 1928, in Beaumont, to Ferold Paul Dever and Velma Christine Jetton Dever, Melba spent many years in Beaumont before becoming a cherished member of the Hemphill community. A 1946 graduate of South Park High School, Melba dedicated many years as a bookkeeper for several automobile dealerships, showcasing her meticulous nature and commitment to her profession. Beyond her professional life, she was deeply involved in her community and church. A member of the First Baptist Church in Hemphill, she contributed passionately to Vacation Bible School and the Awana Club. In her later years, she attended Little Flock Baptist Church with her family.

Melba was known for her vibrant participation in the Red Hat Club and the Order of the Eastern Star, reflecting her sociable and spirited personality. Her hobbies included gardening, sewing, and indulging in her love for reading.

Family was the cornerstone of Melba's life. She is survived by her daughters, Penny Jackson and husband, Bruce, of Beaumont, and Janet Ebarb and husband, David, of Pineland; sonin- law, Donny Impson of Hemphill; sister, Lynell Rhymes of Hardin; and brother, Charles Dever of LaBelle. Her legacy continues through her loving grandchildren, Kevin and Debbie Impson, Scott and Brandy Jackson, Rick Jackson and Kari O’Dell, Joey and Britney Quick, Heather and K.C. Craig, Todd and Heather Jackson and Jalyn and Joe Bice; great-grandchildren, Shelby, Emily, Justin, Ella, Scarlet, Walker, Madison, Preslee, Mary, Molly, Jack, Laken, Abby, Caroline, Daniel, Thomas, Cade, Adyson, Gracie (Long Legs) and Cooper; and great-great-grandchildren, Madi, Jasper, Braydon and Ezra who will cherish her memory and continue her traditions.

Melba was preceded in death by her parents, F.P. and Velma Dever; her husband, C.A. 'Rusty' Rich; her daughter, Jenny Impson; and her great-great-grandson, Ryder Griffin.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 19, 2026, at Starr Funeral Home, 510 Starr Street in Hemphill.

Funeral services are scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on Monday, April 20, 2026, at Starr Funeral Home Chapel, officiated by Bro. David Ebarb.

Burial will follow services in Hemphill Cemetery. Serving as pallbearers are Kevin Impson, Scott Jackson, Rick Jackson, Todd Jackson, Joey Quick and Joe Bice. Honorary pallbearers are KC Craig, Cade Ross, Walker Jackson, Laken Quick, Cooper Bice and Justin Elliott Arrangements were handled by Starr Funeral Home. Our family would like to extend a special thank you to her Legacies family. We can never fully express how grateful we are for the love and care that you showed her. Because of you, we were blessed with more time together. The patience and kindness you showed our family meant more than words can say. You made this difficult process easier and so many of you became like family to us. We love each of you and hope you know just how much you mean to us, and how deeply she loved each of you.

Memories and condolences may be shared with her family at starrfuneralhome.com.